A Talent For War : Lt Gen Sagat Singh

I had grown up to understand that the Indian Army suffered a great debacle at the hands of Chinese Army during 1962 war. This fact pained me during my childhood as I idolised Indian Army . When I grew up , I read the book 'Himalayan Blunder by Brigadier John Parashuram Dalvi'. This is a very accurate description of the events, operations etc. during 1962 Indo-China war because the author was the Brigade Commander whose complete Brigade was wiped off in this conflict. I was horrified upon reading this account and know the realities of that time. It elaborated the scenario where Indians were fed like cannon fodder to the Chinese Army in 1962 due to weak politico-military leadership. At the same time I felt proud of the Indian Army soldier's ethos who gave their everything including their own lives while facing the enemy in face of an imminent defeat.

There was a shame associated with it especially whenever there was any discussion around the topic of 1962 . I having served in the Indian Army , knew its strengths however emotionally I wanted the story to be different. The story however was the same as depicted in the book 'Himalayan Blunder'. But as luck could have been I did stumble upon a story that makes my chest swell with pride as a soldier. A story of a TIGER who gave a bloody nose to Chinese.

Defence Of Nathu-La (11-16 Sept 1967): Myth Of Invincibility Of Chinese Army Is Destroyed

Indian political establishment cowed down to Chinese pressure and agreed to hand over Jelep-La & Nathu-La Pass. Jelep La pass was vacated by 27 Mountain Division following orders and the same was occupied by Chinese Army. However Maj Gen Sagat Singh refused to withdraw from Nathu La which was under his 17 Mountain Division's control . I would like to term him a maverick -the one's which Army must have. He acted differently to what Chinese Army had expected Indian Army to do. The enemy expected that a show of force by them , propaganda of their superiority and an absence of political backing to Indian Army will force the commander to vacate Nathu La but they did not really know General Sagat Singh.

The following are some events where Sagat Singh's thinking bewildered internal & external thinkers alike:-

1. He got his internal stakeholders give him approval for fencing of the border and he ensured that his orders are carried out inspite of Chinese Army's indignation.
2. He put weight behind his troops especially when Chinese opened fire to martyr Indian Army soldiers-He bought 'ALL HELL & FURY' upon the enemy. In response to Chinese assault, General Sagat Singh ordered men to open up all arms including artillery . It is worth mentioning that this permission to open up artillery was only authorised to Chief Of Army Staff & Defence ministry especially on the Chinese Army. Nevertheless General Sagat Sigh did it and with utter disregard to his own career . He only followed his instincts which were to protect his troops.
3. General Sagat's division's response tattered Chinese defences and he was even ready to attack. But the permission was denied. I wish we had done it-history would have been rewritten again. He was unperturbed during the whole episode & this facet is required from a military leader which to be calm in chaos. He held his nerves in face of Indian casualties and ensured that enemy has greater casualties at the end of this charade.

Read more about it & feel proud of Indian Army

When Indian Army Gave Chinese Army A Bloody Nose In 1967

The Liberator Of Goa

1961 - He was made the Brigade Commander for Parachute Regiment. He also did his required para jumps before donning the coveted maroon beret. His brigade was tasked to capture Panaji but his unconventional methods, his leadership to inspire his commanders led them to liberate Goa and take surrender from the Portuguese.

He was popularly called 'Liberator Of Goa' & there was prize announced by Portuguese Government of 10,000 $ -that was the prize on his head.

Read More - Sagat Singh : Liberator Of Goa with price on his head

Lieutenant General Sagat Singh : Man in a hurry to take Dhaka

We all know about the charms of General Sam Manekshaw however we need to delve deeper to know about the men on ground who made it happen too. The daring operations of 4 Corps led by Lt Gen Sagat Singh , PVSM and everyone who supported him will give you goose bumps. The General was so suave that even Air Force Officers supported him by flying what normally is termed unsafe. His pilot Group Captain M S Sihota recounts how they used to fly and land amongst Pakistani army firing range and how General Sagat Singh never ever batted an eyelid during such close quarter firing incidents while any one else in his shoes would have reacted to such incidents with concern.

General Sagat singh was a warrior with steely nerves. He was supported wonderfully by Indian Air Force. Another stalwart Group Captain Chandan Singh contrary to all norms supported the General to carry out unimaginable tasks like transporting large elements of the corps across 'Meghna river'. They flew non stop whole nights without rest and this the most successful air borne operation after second world war.

They were really in a hurry to get to Dhaka and capitulate the Pakistani commanders into surrender.

Read about this real TIGER in the biography by Maj Gen Randhir Sinh - Military Biography of General Sagat Singh

Unfortunately he had to retire to oblivion as he did not make to his next rank. However such warriors are no longer made because he never ever cribbed or protested at the treatment. He was awarded PADMA BHUSAN for 1971 war and lauded by Bangaldesh Government for his role in liberation of Bangladesh.

I urge all youngsters to know about him and live with 'Courage & Tranquility'.

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